From the author of After 50. For fans of best-selling author Bob Wicks and for anyone who's ever wanted to know why he's so special to so many readers, here is a "Best of Wicks" collection of his trademark themes in one handy book. Over the years, Bob Wicks has returned again and again to four spiritual and psychological anchors that lead to peace and fulfillment. These main anchors or life themes are experiencing God, being available, having a sense of clarity, and delighting in the ordinary. In all, Wicks has created a "spirituality of gentleness." Writing about the four main themes, Wicks talks about such individual topics as prayer, silence, solitude, presence, sensitivity, identity, perspective, awareness, relationship, living in the now, and love and service. This compilation shows how his thought on each subject has developed and ripened over time--perfect for leading readers along their own journey of discovery. Each subject is covered in a brief page or two, perfect for quiet mornings or evenings or for creating a moment of peace during a hectic day. Also included are original poems from Wicks, many never before published, to begin and end chapters. There's also a guide to the source of each meditation so longtime fans will know which reflections come from which book. This "best of Wicks'" is ideal for longtime fans and new readers, for anyone suffering loss or experiencing change of any kind, all those with hectic lifestyles, and everyone who needs a bit of gentleness in his or her life. The book is also a valuable resource for clergy and religious, anyone in the helping professions, retreat directors, directors of religious education, adult ed courses, and small faith sharing groups.
Robert J. Wicks (born August 2, 1946 in Queens, New York) is a clinical psychologist and writer about the intersection of spirituality and psychology. Wicks is a well known speaker, therapist, and spiritual guide who has taught at universities and professional schools of psychology, medicine, nursing, theology, and social work for more than thirty years. He a Professor Emeritus at Loyola University Maryland
I'm rereading this book, that I received as a gift in 2001, for at least the 3rd or 4th time. It's a short guide to the importance of time for silent reading and nourishing of the scriptures as we listen for guidance from God in our lives. Taking time to nourish our souls in His Love and Guidance is the key to relating to ourselves and others in community. 10/29/2025 - It was time to read this gem of a book again. There is so much confusion and conflict today that I needed time to read this book of how to live a spiritual life by Robert Wicks. Wicks makes living a spiritual life clear and do-able, but not easy. 02/16/2026 - What I heard this time is to enjoy NOW. We don't get any other time than now. It might be meditation and deep breathing, with God as our guide, to bring love to ourselves and others.